Pin Mill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pin Mill |
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 The shoreline at Pin Mill, Chelmondiston |
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 Pin Mill
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| OS grid reference | TM2052537997 |
| District | |
| Shire county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | Ipswich |
| Postcode district | IP9 |
| Dialling code | 01473 |
| EU Parliament | East of England |
Pin Mill is a small, charming village located on the south side of the River Orwell in Suffolk, England. It's part of the beautiful Shotley Peninsula. This area is so special that it's protected as part of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Pin Mill is famous for its old pub, the Butt and Oyster, and for being a great place for sailing.
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Pin Mill's Past
What's in a Name?
The name "Pin Mill" might make you think of a factory that makes pins. Or maybe a special wheel used to make leather. But strangely, there's no record of either of these things ever happening here! So, the real reason for the name "Pin Mill" is still a bit of a mystery.
A Busy River Hub
Long ago, Pin Mill was a very busy place. Ships would bring in lots of goods, making it an important landing spot. It was also a key center for fixing large boats called Thames sailing barges. Many small businesses thrived here, like places that made sails or bricks. There was even a maltings, which is now a workshop.
Secret Stories
The east coast of England has a long history of smuggling. People say that Pin Mill and its famous pub, the Butt and Oyster, played a big part in these secret activities.
Pin Mill in World War II
During World War II, Pin Mill was important for the Royal Navy. It was home to fast boats called Motor Launches. It also had a special ship that helped protect other vessels from magnetic mines. Pin Mill and nearby Woolverstone were also home ports for many landing craft, tanks. These were the boats used to carry tanks and soldiers during the D-Day invasion in 1944.
Modern Improvements
Recently, the facilities for sailing have been improved. A new community company now helps manage the Hard at Pin Mill. This is the firm ground where boats can be pulled ashore.
Old Boats and Art
Just down the river from the houseboats, you can see several old, wrecked traditional boats. These old vessels are very popular with artists and photographers. They make for interesting and unique pictures.
Fun Things to Do and See
Sailing Adventures
Pin Mill is a favorite spot for people who love to sail. You can see many yachts and small dinghies here. During World War II, many yachts were stored in the "saltings" (marshy areas) west of the village. They waited there until the war was over. The river moorings were also home to special Royal Harwich One Design Class boats for many years in the 1940s.
There are two boatyards in Pin Mill. The Pin Mill Sailing Club hosts an annual Barge Match. This exciting event has been happening every year since 1962.
The Grindle Stream
The Grindle is a small stream that flows next to Pin Mill Common. It goes right down to the Pin Mill Hard on the riverbank. Sailors often use this little stream with their dinghies to get ashore from their boats.
The Butt and Oyster Pub
The Butt and Oyster is a very old pub, built in the 17th century. It serves traditional "real ale." The building is protected because of its history. Inside, the bar and restaurant have big bay windows. These windows offer amazing views of the Orwell estuary, where the river meets the sea.
Walking and Nature
Pin Mill is located along the Stour and Orwell walk. This is a lovely path for hikers. There are many other marked walking trails in the area too. You can walk through the Cliff Plantation forest, which is owned by the National Trust. It's a great place to explore nature.
Getting to Pin Mill
You can reach Pin Mill by taking a lane about half a mile from the center of Chelmondiston. Chelmondiston is on the B1456 road, which connects to Ipswich and Shotley. There's a public car park near the river. The Butt and Oyster pub also has some limited parking for its customers.
Images for kids
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The Butt and Oyster Inn in 2001.
